Indian Railways Punctuality Up; New Chhattisgarh Rail Services
Indian Railways is demonstrating significant operational improvements, maintaining high punctuality levels even as passenger demand continues to surge across the country. Through improved monitoring, timetable rationalization, and infrastructure upgrades, the network is becoming increasingly efficient.
Rising Punctuality Trends
Official data shows a steady upward trajectory in train punctuality. From a rate of 69.2% in 2018-19, punctuality has improved to 77.43% in 2025-26, with the current figure for 2026-27 standing at 77.11%. This performance is a marked improvement over the 73.62% recorded during the 2023-24 period.
Addressing Social Media Misinformation
The Ministry has clarified that certain punctuality figures being shared on social media are misleading and taken out of context. Specifically, the high punctuality rates seen during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 periods cannot be used as a benchmark for current operations.
The unusually high figures during the pandemic occurred because very few trains were running. Comparing those years to the current period, when trains operate at full capacity, is not an accurate comparison.
Major Connectivity Milestone in Chhattisgarh
In addition to operational efficiency, Indian Railways has achieved a massive milestone in expanding regional connectivity in Chhattisgarh. In the presence of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, several key projects were inaugurated to link remote areas to the national grid.
New Lines and Historic Train Arrivals
The expansion includes the inauguration of the Tadoki–Raoghat and Abhanpur–Kurud broad-gauge rail lines. This development brings historic changes to the region:
- New Passenger Services: The flagging off of the Raoghat–Raipur and Raipur–Kurud train services.
- Historic Milestone: For the first time since independence, trains have arrived in Raoghat, connecting the remote southern regions of Chhattisgarh to the rest of the country.
Strengthening Infrastructure in Raipur
To support the growing demand and ensure long-term reliability, the foundation stone was laid for a new Electric Locomotive Maintenance Facility in Raipur. This facility, supported by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw via video conferencing, will play a crucial role in enhancing passenger amenities and regional travel facilities.